Following rules, preserving trust
How Tchibo makes ethical principles an integral part of daily business.
Tchibo is convinced that long-term success will only be possible through sustainable operations. Ethical business practices, fairness and uncompromising compliance with all legal requirements are all top priorities for us. The structures and processes in our corporate governance system enable us to ensure that our employees, suppliers and other partners are committed to our principles and that we can counter any deviations from them promptly.
Our Code of Conduct (CoC) serves as the key guideline for our business operations, outlining 13 principles and values of ethical business practice and good business conduct. Since 2007, the CoC has applied to for all employees of Tchibo GmbH and its subsidiaries. Violations can lead to sanctions as provided for under occupational law. Our suppliers are required to follow the Social Code of Conduct (SCoC).
The Code of Conduct is an integral element of our company
Management makes sure that the Code of Conduct’s principles and ethical values are regularly communicated to all company employees in an appropriate manner. Aside from acting as role models, all members of management with disciplinary responsibilities are duty bound to make sure that the Code of Conduct is firmly rooted in employees’ awareness and that they are following its rules. Every line manager is responsible for ensuring that all employees in his or her area of responsibility understand and comply with the rules in the Code, and each new employee is trained to understand Tchibo’s policies and receives a copy of the Code of Conduct.
Data protection is part of our Code of Conduct
In 2010, the Code was modified once again, primarily to address the specific issue of data protection. A policy is now in place to regulate all measures protecting our employees’ and customers’ personal information.
New whistleblower hotline makes anonymous complaints possible
When in doubt regarding the legal, ethical or moral conformity of their own or someone else’s business conduct, our employees can turn to their supervisors, the personnel department, or the works council at any time for information. Anyone who wishes to remain anonymous is invited to use the whistleblower hotline, which we established in 2010 to replace our ombudsman’s office. Through the hotline, employees can report violations to the ombudsman council, an internal committee consisting of the directors of maxingvest ag’s internal audit service, Tchibo GmbH’s legal and personnel departments, and Tchibo GmbH’s works council chair.The ombudsman council initiates investigations if necessary. The anonymity of the whistleblower remains intact and this clearly defined process leads to a recommendation for action appropriate to the situation.